Real Madrid is already playing an important role at the start of the 2024/25 La Liga season.
Carlo Ancelotti’s star-studded side have dropped points on their road trip this season and are four points behind rivals Barcelona ahead of matchday five. A visit to Real Sociedad is not an easy proposition as Los Blancos look to close the gap, especially with injuries affecting the reigning Spanish champions in San Sebastian.
While Jude Bellingham could return to some extent, Madrid could be without Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, David Alaba and Dani Ceballos for Saturday’s clash. Both Eder Militao and Ferland Mendy are also doubtful.
Here’s how Madrid might line up for this weekend’s clash.
GK: Thibaut Courtois – The Belgian stopper has not been tested much in the opening weeks of the season but has been reliable when called upon. He expects nothing less than Real Sociedad.
RB: Dani Carvajal – The surprise Ballon d’Or contender continues to be Madrid’s first-choice right-back and has been hot but consistent this season.
CB: Antonio Rudiger – The glue that holds Madrid’s defense together, Rudiger has started 2024/25 in good form. He will be desperate for a third La Liga clean sheet this season at the Real Arena.
CB: Eder Militao – There are concerns over Militao’s availability this weekend after suffering a knee injury against Brazil during the break. However, he is expected to appear at the weekend, which will please Ancelotti.
LB: Ferland Mendy – Like Militao there are doubts about Mendy’s fitness after withdrawing from the French team. But, like his Brazilian counterpart, he should be passed fit this weekend, with youngster Fran Garcia on call just in case.
DM: Federico Valverde – Madrid’s strongest player this term, Valverde may be asked to do more defensive work this weekend if Tchouameni misses out through injury.
DM: Luka Modric – With a potential French midfielder, veteran Modric could feature in his 22nd game for Real Sociedad. He has been busy with Croatia during the international season and should have a sharp game.
RW: Rodrygo – Rodrygo returns to Madrid after leading Brazil to victory against Ecuador and will be aiming to continue his impressive early season form. The winger may not get the same attention as his attacking counterparts, but he is just as important to Madrid’s success.
AM: Jude Bellingham – Having missed England duty and the last few games for Madrid, the magical Bellingham could return to San Sebastian. Madrid really missed his brilliance in his absence.
LW: Vinicius Junior – The Brazilian may have drawn two of Madrid’s home games this season but he scored and assisted in the away tie. If he plays well, Madrid could win this weekend.
ST: Kylian Mbappe – After opening his La Liga account against Real Betis before the international break, Mbappe should be determined to add to his tally this Saturday. He scored three goals for Paris Saint-Germain against Real Sociedad in the Champions League last season.
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